As child I was raised by my parents as a Roman Catholic, I went to Catholic Primary School and attended my local church regularly. So the symbol of a cross always had precious significance in all my early teachings and as I grew up I learned that this symbol had major religious and spiritual significance around the globe.

At Ariki New Zealand Limited we have a range of beautiful and elegant cross inspired jewellery pieces to suit any occasion.

GP813/PO813 – Large Cross Pendant – Paua
GP821/PO821 – Small Cross Pendant – Paua
GO413  Large Cross Pendant – Jade
GO421  Small Cross Pendant – Jade
SP27      Large Cross Pendant – Sterling Silver

The cross, found in many cultures and religions of the world, is an ancient human symbol that has become closely connected with the religion of Christianity, where it is associated with the crucifixion of Jesus.

The most famous and widespread Christian symbol, it is found wherever there is a Christian presence. In Roman times, the cross was an instrument of torture and public humiliation, and criminals were put to death on crosses.

For Christians, the cross has become a symbol not only of Jesus’ death, but also of his resurrection. While the cross has been around long before the advent of Christianity, the Easter story (that is, the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ) has made the cross one of the most recognized icons in the world. The cross symbolizes sacrifice, suffering, repentance, solidarity, and exclusion. These are only a few ways to interpret the cross. Every Christian applies their own significance to this perennial symbol.

The cross is often shown in different shapes and sizes, and in many different styles. It may be used in personal Jewellery, or used on top of church buildings. In Roman Catholic countries, crosses are often erected on the peaks of prominent mountains, so as to be visible over the entire surrounding area. Roman Catholic and High Anglican depictions of the cross are often crucifixes in order to emphasize Jesus’ sacrifice.

Crosses are a prominent feature of Christian cemeteries, either carved on gravestones or as sculpted stelas. Similarly, the insertion of small crosses is sometimes used in countries of Christian culture to mark the site of fatal accidents, or to protest alleged deaths.

The Cross means many things to many people. Some have it displayed on their mantel, others wear it around their neck.

So whatever special significance the Cross has to you I am absolutely sure that you will be able to choose a unique and precious piece of New Zealand Jewellery from our range to honour this significance.